UncommonNativeSecure
8
Kentucky Bass
Micropterus punctulatus · Centrarchidae
Spotted bass. The deep, clear-water cousin of the Ozarks.
Common
10–17 in
Max
24 in
Weight
Up to 8 lbs
Best Bite Windows
When kentucky bass feeds · time-of-day read
Right now · 12:00 PM · MIDD window
FAIR55%feeding activity
Off-peak · slow near cover
24-hour bite curvetaller = more feeding · scrub the clock
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DAWN
72
MORN
75
MIDD
57
AFTE
71
DUSK
45
NIGH
31
Deep-clear-water bass · steady all-day bite
Solar + LunarMEDIUM lunar pull
Major feeds7:57p – 9:57p5:09a – 7:09a
Minor feeds5:29a – 6:29a8:06p – 9:06p
Solunar window 8:12p – 9:42p
Full Moon
Day · Rocky points, ledges, and mid-depth cover. Behaves similarly to Smallmouth with moderate lunar sensitivity.
Night · Moderate night activity near Full Moon. Finesse presentations along deep structure.
Habitat
RiversReservoirsLakes
Range
Deep, clear reservoirs. Rocky points, bluff walls, river current.
Diet
Crawfish, shad, small minnows.
Best baits & lures
Drop shot
Shaky head
Spoons
Gear up locallyPartner
Tale Waters & Tides
The home water for Arkansas anglers
Pocket Fishing Guide is powered by Tale Waters & Tides — gear, guides, and the stories behind the water. Plan your next trip with us.
How to fish it · techniques
Fish vertical on bluffs
Smaller bait than largemouth
Drop shot for finicky fish
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Rileys White & Buffalo Outfitter
Your White & Buffalo River outfitter
Guided float trips, canoe & kayak rentals, and riverside cabins on the White and Buffalo rivers.
Fun fact
Spotted bass have a small patch of teeth on the tongue — slide a finger across and you'll feel sandpaper. It's the easiest way to tell them from a largemouth in the boat.
Status
Secure
Native · Centrarchidae